Steam Yacht Gondola Lake Bank to Coniston | National Trust Steam Yacht Gondola Lake Bank to Coniston Walking trail The walk takes you up to 200m above sea level on clearly defined paths with some short, quite steep climbs and easy descents. Conditions underfoot can be wet at certain times of the year but the views are more than rewarding. The route then follows the lake shore path and is very straightforward but also has wonderful views. The timings given are for a fit pensioner, so please adjust to suit after the first couple of stages and allow for various breaks. In partnership with Distance 7.6 miles (12.2 km) Map Landranger 96 Coniston Pier 1 Distance: 0.6km, Time: 10 mins. Walk past the ticket office and up the narrow path to the road. Turn right, passing the entrance to Crake Valley Holiday Park. As the road sweeps right on a gentle decline, look out for the footpath on your left. This point is confirmed currently by two signs by the National Park regarding Blawith Common. Read more Lake Bank jetty Don't rush to leave Lake Bank.

It has a magical quality all of its own with wonderful views up the lake. To the south-east is High Nibthwaite with an Anthony Gormley statue just visible in the field this side of the village. 2 Distance 1.1km, Time: 28 mins. A short steep climb takes you in a south-westerly direction. On the ascent, ignore a track going off to your right, between the two sets of telegraph poles. At the top of the climb, ignore a track off to your left and descend straight ahead. This takes you down to a more defined track coming in from your left (Water Yeat). It is here that you turn right and cross Tarn Beck on a small slatted bridge. 3 Distance: 0.4km, Time 9 mins. A steady climb begins to level out. Ignore a track going right across the beck. Simply carry on ahead with the beck on your right. This brings you to the south of Beacon Tarn. Read more Beacon Tarn Beacon Tarn is a South Lakeland gem, provoking childhood memories of swimming and fishing in the summer and skating in the winter! There are great views north to the Coniston Fells.

4 Distance: 1.0km, Time: 28 mins. Joining the Cumbria Way, head around the far side of the tarn (the west side) ignoring the various tracks to your left and head north along the edge of the tarn, to its northernmost point. This area can be very wet underfoot. Continue north, slowly climbing to the high point. Read more Beacon Fell At the north end of the tarn you could always make a detour to the summit of Beacon Fell, a short steep climb rewarded by stunning views. If you do this, be sure to re-join the trail where you left it! 5 Distance: 1.4km, Time: 28 mins. Ahead and below you is a large 'moss'. As you descend, leave the moss on your left side. As you reach the far end, the larger Stable Harvey Moss is visible ahead. Beyond it, you may see a small disused reservoir which is a guide to the general direction. Towards the end of the descent, bear left at a fork in the trail and pass below a small rock outcrop. Keep heading for the lane which serves Stable Harvey, joining it at a fingerpost pointing back towards the route you have just done.

6 Distance: 1.7km, Time: 30 mins. 60m up the lane is another bridleway sign taking you left away from the lane. Pass the two ash trees and continue straight ahead toward the twin poles. The gentle descent sweeps right; on reaching a small marker post, go left reaching another marker post almost immediately. Go right over the beck, soon ignoring a track off to the left (to the reservoir) and head down the left hand flank of the valley. This brings you to Torver Beck with its wooden bridge. Follow the path to the road ahead. Read more Torver Beck Bridge Torver Beck runs into Coniston Water at Sunny Bank. The bridge is a delightful spot for a breather. If the weather's nice you might want to go for a quick paddle. 7 Distance: 5.9km, Time: 100 mins. All the hard work is done! Cross the road and follow the path down to the lake at the Sunny Bank jetty. Simply follow this delightful shore footpath which takes you all the way back to your start point. Ignore paths taking you away from the lake other than when approaching Coniston Old Hall campsite. After Coniston Old Hall, bear right.

After the second gate as you are heading directly towards the village, bear right on the obvious track taking you to Lake Road. Turn right and 5 minutes later you could be enjoying a well earned cuppa in the lovely Bluebird Café. Well done - we hope you enjoyed the walk. Read more Coniston Old Hall Built in the 15th century, Coniston Old Hall with its distinctive round chimneys, was the seat of the Fleming Family. It is now owned by the National Trust, although is not open to the public. End: Coniston- Steam Yacht Gondola – Visit Cumbria The Gondola, which is the oldest steam yacht in the North of England was built in 1859 by the Furness Railway Company as an attraction for the tourists they brought by train to Coniston . She was retired in 1936, was used as a house-boat, and abandoned in the 1960’s. In the mid 1970’s a group of National Trust enthusiasts raised enough money to restore her.

The restored yacht was relaunched on 25th March 1980, and after a break of 44 years re-entered public service on Coniston Water , Cumbria’s third largest lake. The trip round the lake starts at Coniston Pier, proceeding anti-clockwise past Coniston Hall (a working farm owned by the National Trust) to Park-a-Moor (without stopping here). The journey then proceeds northwards, stopping at Brantwood , the home of John Ruskin from 1871 until his death in 1900. The yacht then travels the short distance across the lake back to Coniston Pier. Gondola gave Arthur Ransome the idea for Captain Flint’s houseboat in his children’s book ‘Swallows and Amazons’ , although this was eventually modelled on Esperance (now at Windermere Steamboat Museum ). A souvenir booklet describing the history of the yacht is available on board. Travellers may choose to sit in the luxurious 1st Class Saloon, or enjoy the open air from the spacious forward seating area. Coniston Water. Links Coniston Water Coniston Water is situated to the west of Lake Windermere , lying parallel to it.

The lake is five and a half miles long, half a mile wide and has a depth of of around 180'. Coniston is one of the most imposing and beautiful of the English lakes. Left - Coniston Water, the northern end, near to Coniston village. Right - The lake from the east bank The third largest lake in the Lake District, Coniston Water sits in a U shaped valley scoured out by a glacial action in the last ice age. Known as Thurston Water until the Victorian era, the lake is now a popular holiday resort. On the lakeside nearest to Coniston village is a pier and the Bluebird cafe,where drinks and ice-cream can be purchased, and rowing boats are available for hire. The cafe itself was frequented by Donald Campbell during his world water speed bids. Left - View across the lake to the Old Man of Coniston. Right - A winter view of the southern part of the lake The Steam Yacht Gondola , a unique craft, which marries a Venetian gondola with Victorian steam technology, opearates regular cruises on the northern section of the lake between Coniston pier and Brantwood during the tourist season.

carrying up to 86 passengers in opulent Victorian luxury, it is now owned by the National Trust, the Gondola was built in 1859 by the Furness Railway Company. It operated on the lake until the 1960's when it broke its moorings and was beached in a storm. The boat was rebuilt to its original design and relaunched on the lake in 1980. The Gondola operates daily from the end of March to the end of October, from 11.00am, with the exception of Saturdays when it starts from 12.00noon. The Coniston Boating Centre, half a mile from Coniston Village, provides amenities for the hire of electric self drive boats, sailing dinghies and sailing instruction, canoeing and kayaking. Looking across Lake Coniston from the east bank to Coniston village and the Old Man and the Furness Fells near Coniston Coniston Water provided inspiration for Arthur Ransome's famous children's book 'Swallows and Amazons', the southern island, Peel, has been identified as the 'Wild Cat Island' in Ransome's book.

The lake is dominated by the Old Man of Coniston which rises to 803 metres (2,635 feet) and offers excellent views from its summit. The fell is a favourite with hill walkers and lies to the west of Coniston village. The Old Man of Coniston is the inspiration for Kanchenjunga, the mountain in Arthur Ransome's 'Swallows and Amazons'. Left - The view across Coniston to John Ruskin's home Brantwood. Right - An Autumnal view of the lake The area between Coniston and the Old Man is greatly scarred by slate quarries and copper mines. The fell is generally climbed from the village via Church Beck and the mines. There are alternative routes, which include the south ridge, which rises up the fell from the Walna Scar Road. Dow Crag offers a challenge to climbers with its 183 metre wall of rock. On the east bank of the lake stands Brantwood , home to the famous Victorian artist and critic, John Ruskin, which is open to the public. There are also excellent views over the lake to the extensive Grizedale Forest to the east.

Early evening light over Coniston Water Donald Campbell Coniston was the site of the world water speed record bids of Donald Campbell (23 March 1921 - 4 January 1967) which culminated in his tragic death at 8.42a.m. on 4th January, 1967, whilst attempting to reach a speed of 300 mph. In attempting to break his own water speed record of 276.3 m.p.h., Campbell reached a speed of 297m.p.h., on the first of two obligatory runs. On his return run travelling at a speed estimated to be in excess of 320m.p.h., his boat, Buebird K7, somersaulted and plunged back into the water, nose first, disintegrating on impact. Campbell was killed instantly. The remains of the Bluebird were located after over four years of diving and surveying, by Bill Smith, an underwater surveyor from Newcastle. The remains lay at 150 feet half buried in silt. The wreckage of Bluebird was recovered from the lake on 28th March, 2001 , the cockpit was completely crushed.

A body, found near to the remains of Bluebird, assumed to be that of Campbell himself was retrieved from the lake. In August 2001 the Barrow in Furness coroner came to the decision that based on DNA evidence the remains were those of Donald Campbell. After a funeral service at Coniston Village, attended by his wife and daughter, Gina Campbell, he was finally laid to rest in Coniston churchyard within the village. Coniston Water In The Lake District Cumbria Coniston Village and Lake Coniston Coniston Water Coniston Water and the village of Coniston where once a hub of our industrial past, whilst today it is one of the most visited of all the Lakeland destinations, offering great walks to the world renowned Old Man Of Coniston as it rises dramatically to a height of 2,635 feet behind the village. With the village delightfully set between the mountain and the lake. Should you consider climbing the local fells of Coniston, weather permitting you will be rewarded with some fantastic views and on a clear day you can see Morecambe Bay and the largest expanse of intertidal mudflats and sand in the United Kingdom.

That being said Coniston Water is the third largest lake within the Lake District being 5 miles long, half a mile wide and with a depth of 184 feet. The Romans mined copper from the fells above Coniston and this industrial activity continued in medieval times. In the 13th and 14th centuries Coniston Water was an important source of fish for the monks of Furness Abbey who owned the lake and much of the surrounding land with copper mining continuing in the area until the 19th century. [Show as slideshow] One of the most famous local inhabitants was the Victorian artist and philosopher John Ruskin who owned Brantwood House, which is situated on the eastern shores of Coniston Water, and he lived in it from 1872 until his death in 1900. Ruskin is buried in the churchyard within the village of Coniston. Arthur Ransome set his children’s novel ‘Swallows and Amazons’ and some of its sequels on a fictional lake, although drew much of his inspiration from Coniston Water. Some of Coniston Water’s islands and other local landmarks can be identified in the novel.

In particular, Peel Island is the Wild Cat Island of the book including the secret harbour. Record Breaking Coniston Water For a lot of people the association of the water speed world record attempts with Coniston Water being the scene of many of these attempts to break the world record of Sir Malcolm Campbell originally set in 1939 at a speed of 141.74 miles per hour in Bluebird K4. Between 1956 and 1959 Sir Malcolm Campbell’s son Donald Campbell set four successive records on Coniston Lake in Bluebird K7, a hydroplane. [Show as slideshow] In 1966 Donald Campbell decided that he needed to exceed 300 miles per hour in order to retain the record. On January 4th, 1967 he achieved a top speed of over 320 miles per hour in Bluebird K7 on the return leg of a record-breaking attempt. He then lost control of Bluebird, which somersaulted and crashed, sinking rapidly. Donald Campbell was killed instantly on impact. The record-breaking attempt could not be counted as a run because the second leg was not completed.

The remains of Bluebird were recovered from the lake in 2001 and Campbell’s body was recovered later in the same year. A replica of Bluebird can be seen at the Lakeland Motor museum, at Holker Hall. Sailing Coniston Water There are two public launch services on Coniston Water with the Coniston Launch offering special lake cruises of ‘Swallows and Amazons’ and ‘Campbell’s on Coniston’ for those wishing to explore the lake and its history. The National Trust’s steam yacht Gondola along with the Coniston Launch both call at Brantwood. Boats can be hired from the lakeside near the steam yacht, with various sizes of boat for hire. [Show as slideshow] The Monk Coniston Estate, Beatrix Potter purchased originally belonging to the monks of Furness Abbey in 1930. She immediately sold half to the National Trust and upon her death the remainder was given to the National Trust. The estate stretches from Coniston to Skelwith Bridge. It includes the famous Tarn Hows. The attraction being its sheer beauty, surrounded by thick woodland, and views towards Wetherlam, the Helvellyn range and the Langdale Pikes.

There is a 1.5 mile path at Tarn Hows that is level and well maintained and thus suitable for wheelchairs. Should you wish to see better quality photographs of Coniston Water please visit Coniston Water on our Lake District Walks Flickr account. There is an abundance of holiday accommodation near Coniston Water and the surrounding area of the lake, with Campsites, Guest Houses and local pubs. For a pet friendly home search our Lake District Cottages for a local cottage close to Coniston Water. I trust you enjoyed this article on Coniston Water and found it helpful. Lake District & Lakeland Walks Lake District Walks Tag Cloud Coniston Water, Lake District Travel Guide ? Steam yacht Gondola near Brantwood, Coniston Water Coniston Water is the third longest of the lakes in the Lake District, at over 5 miles. It never gets terribly wide, but it does reach 184 feet in depth. This last factor, and the fact that the lake is quite straight, made it attractive to those adventurous souls bent on claiming the world speed record. One such was Sir Donald Campbell. In 1967 Campbell's boat Bluebird broke apart when travelling at over 320 mph.

The depth of the lake meant that it was not until quite recently that Campbell's body was recovered, and reburied in Coniston churchyard. But enough of gloom! Coniston is a gorgeous lake, and its proximity to popular climbs makes it extremely popular with walkers. The most popular walk is the ascent of the Old Man of Coniston, which provides excellent views over the lake and the surrounding area. Before becoming a popular centre for outdoor activities Coniston village had a thriving slate and copper industry. The Romans were the first to mine copper here, but much later small furnaces to process iron ore were set up along the lakeshore. These furnaces used wood from the surrounding forests as their fuel. The other famous name associated with Coniston Water is that of John Ruskin. Ruskin was a Victorian writer, philosopher, and social reformer. He so loved the area that when the house known as Brantwood, on the eastern shore across from Coniston, came on the market he bought it sight unseen. For, as he said, any house along the lake was bound to be worthwhile.

Ruskin lived the last 20 years of his life at Brantwood, and is buried in the churchyard - by choice, even though he was offered a place in Westminster Abbey before he died. The house is now open to visitors and contains many mementos of Ruskin's life. No visit to Coniston Water is complete without a ride on the steam yacht Gondola. The yacht, first built in 1859, was one of a pair that plied up and down the lake for many years before improvement in roads make them obsolete. The National Trust has restored the Gondola, and it now carries visitors on lake tours from Coniston pier. There are other options besides the Gondola, however; the Coniston Launch offers regular cruises up and down the lake. Included are several special interest cruises, including a 'Swallows and Amazon' cruise, and a 'Ruskin Cruise'. The Britain Express family had the pleasure of taking a Swallows and Amazon's cruise, and had a wonderful time. The guide was entertaining, and for anyone who has read and enjoyed Arthur Ransome's wonderful stories, this is a 'must-do'.

And finally, we would be remiss not to mention our friends Jackie and Dave, who run the Fir Trees Bed and Breakfast , located just a few steps from the lakeshore at Waterhead, Coniston. If you enjoy an hospitable, homely bed and breakfast, and great hospitality, you'll enjoy Fir Trees! About Coniston Water Things to do in Coniston - Days Out & Restaurants - Lakelovers About Coniston Things to do in Coniston Fell-walking is indeed a chief attraction here, and the pretty village makes an excellent base for conquering the southern and western summits. There are several enticing inns and eateries here, as well as many independent shops, and the village is close to the lake and the multiple water-based activities this provides, not to mention the stunning lake and mountain scenery. The lake itself, Coniston Water, is famously associated with Donald Campbell and his ill-fated speed record attempt in his boat, ‘Bluebird’. He is commemorated in the locally brewed Coniston Bluebird Ale, which you will surely want to sample during your stay.

The village and surrounding area is also heavily associated with the eminent Victorian art critic John Ruskin, and his former home of Brantwood lies just a few miles along the lake shore. In coniston The Ruskin Museum An award-winning museum on Yewdale Road. Visitors are afforded a unique insight into the history of Coniston. Information and exhibits focus on John Ruskin, Donald Campbell and his craft Bluebird, Arthur Ransome, along with local industries of times past, including the production of slate, copper, Langdale linen, and Ruskin lace. – Bluebird Cafe by the Lake One of the very most pleasant things to do in Coniston has to be whiling away an hour or two in the the Bluebird Cafe. Set right by Coniston Water at the end of Lake Road, by the piers and Coniston Boating Centre, the cafe enjoys fabulous views all round, and you can combine a visit here with a lake cruise, hiring a rowing boat, or exploring the lovely shoreline.

– Coniston Launch Beautiful launches dating from the early 20th Century use a traditional Lakeland launch and Cygnet to glide you and your party over the lake, stopping at several jetties, including Brantwood, former home of Victorian art critic and philanthropist John Ruskin. You can alight at any of the stops and walk the fells and lakeside paths before taking to the water again. Guides offer commentaries as you go, and special itineraries include ‘Swallows and Amazons’ for Arthur Ransome fans and ‘Campbells on Coniston’ for those with an interest in the water speed record attempts that took place here. – Steam Yacht Gondola The craft that first inspired Captain Flint’s houseboat in ‘Swallows and Amazons’, The Gondola is the oldest steam yacht in the north of the country, and is owned by the National Trust. Let the breeze blow your cares away on deck or relax in the stylish saloon cabin as you glide over beautiful Coniston Water. – Coniston Boating Centre As in the Lake District more generally, you can always head to the water in Coniston for things to do.

Located at the end of Lake Road, right by Coniston Water, this centre allows you to hire rowing boats and sailing dinghies, motor boats, canoes and paddle boards. A great way to get properly acquainted with one of England’s loveliest lakes. – Spoon Hall Pony Trekking What finer way to enjoy the best of Lakeland’s scenery? No previous riding experience is necessary, and children as young as 7 years old can enjoy pony rides under the guidance of an expert tutor. Located at Haws Bank close to the village. (015394 41391) OTHER USEFUL INFORMATION Tourist Information The Tourist Information Centre at Coniston is located next to the main village car park on Ruskin Avenue, and often hosts exhibitions as well as offering information on events, attractions, and things to do in Coniston. Shops Amongst several other shops there is a Co-op on Yewdale Road, and W.F.Hutchinson on Tilberthwaite Avenue is an excellent store which sells fresh bread and meat along with other produce. Petrol Stations There is a filling station on Broughton Road in the village centre.

Health Centre Coniston Medical Practice is based at Wraydale House, on your left as you begin to leave the village to head down the lake side on the A593 – Vets The nearest veterinarian services are in Ambleside on Church Street and Windermere on Lake Road, both branches of the Oakhill Veterinary Group. – Parking There are pay and display car parks on Ruskin Avenue near the village centre, at The Old Station on Walna Scar Road towards Coniston Old Man, by Coniston Boating Centre on Lake Road, and at the head of the Lake at Monk Coniston. Some of the central streets in town offer time-limited parking only, though there is free unrestricted parking elsewhere. Exploring EXPLORING THE LAKE DISTRICT FROM CONISTON Coniston is situated in the south-west of the area. It is well placed for exploring the whole Lake District, and is a short run from Ambleside and Grasmere. Hawkshead is nearby, and beyond lies Sawrey and Beatrix Potter country.

The coast is within reach from here as you head west on the A593, and you can also go that way to take a drive up to the wild and beautiful valley of Wasdale in the north. Going south down past Hawkshead takes you to Newby Bridge and lower-lying hills and woodlands. Taking the turn for Little Langdale on the road from Coniston towards Ambleside is well worth the effort of negotiating the narrow lanes beyond, as it leads to one of the Lake District’s very prettiest valleys. Here you can find the rustic Slaters Bridge, a short walk from the Three Shires Inn, and nearby Cathedral Cavern, both products of the local slate-mining industry. At the end of the valley, high mountain passes provide an exhilarating drive and unsurpassed views, the imposing Wrynose Pass conveying you towards the Duddon Valley and Eskdale, and another pass winding its way over to the Great Langdale valley. There are several minibus tour companies to choose from in the lakes if you want to take the stress out of sightseeing, and Bluebird Tours are based in Coniston.

– Eating & Drinking WHERE TO EAT AND DRINK IN CONISTON Cafes and pubs with outside seating abound here, and include the 400-year-old Black Bull Inn, makers of the celebrated local brew, Coniston Bluebird Ale. A little further off, The Drunken Duck Inn, set in countryside between Coniston and Ambleside, has an excellent reputation for high-end gastro-pub food. You should try to visit Chesters By the River at Skelwith Bridge, too, a delightful tearoom and gift shop with a mouth-watering lunch menu and range of homemade cakes. Our Plaice on Lake Road in Coniston is a fish-and-chip takeaway. Please follow this link for some of our further thoughts on where to eat out during your stay: Walks WALKS AROUND CONISTON Coniston inhabits some of the finest walking country in the Lake District, and the surrounding fells are well known to walkers and climbers. Coniston Old Man dominates the skyline behind the village, and also nearby are Wetherlam, Dow Crags, and Swirl How.

Beatrix Potters extensive Monk Coniston Estate, lying between the lake and Skelwith Bridge, contains superb countryside for ramblers, and further to the south and west the land is more gently appointed, with many excellent picnic and bathing spots at the far end of Coniston Water. We suggest the purchase of a good map and guidebook for anything more than the simplest rambles. Here we list a few of our own recommendations: Tarn Hows A mostly level, wide, and well laid path runs by the side of one of the prettiest tarns in the Lake District. Tarn Hows is delightfully set amongst trees on the high ground above Coniston, and offers an easy circular walk by the waterside. The beauty spot is part of the Monk Coniston Estate, donated to the National Trust by Beatrix Potter, and a walk here ranks as one of the essential things to do near Coniston during your stay. There are also several routes that take in the tarn as part of a longer, more rugged ramble. Park at the large National Trust car park near the tarn. 1 hr.

Tilberthwaite to Little Langdale A short distance from Coniston on the A593 towards Ambleside, you will see a turn for Tilberthwaite. The car park towards the end of this delightful little road allows you to start an ascent of Wetherlam through the former mine workings near the small Hamlet of Tilberthwaite, but it also marks the start of a lovely lower-level walk to one of the Lake District’s gems, the valley of Little Langdale. You can make a circular walk, incorporating stops at The Three Shires Inn for refreshment, and at Cathedral Cavern, a spectacular product of slate quarrying with tunnels through the hillside that will fascinate children and adults alike. This walk provides tremendous views of the Langdale Pikes. 2 – 3 hrs. Coniston Hall by the Lake Head for the marina by the lakeside, but deviate onto the Cumbria Way path running south. You can make a circuit through woodlands and walk on wide level paths through the grounds of Coniston Hall and the associated campsite, taking in lake and mountain views. Suitable for wheelchairs and pushchairs. 1 hr.

Coniston Old Man One of the most popular fell walks in the whole Lake District, and with good reason. There are several routes to consider, and we recommend making this a circular route. One of the main track runs up through the old mines, but you may prefer to continue on the Walna Scar Road and start the ascent further on, before descending this way. The views are stunning, especially if you choose to include Dow Crags, high above secluded Goatswater, in your plan. There is a car park on the fell side at the top of the steep lane climbing up from the village. 2 ½ – 3 ½ hrs. Walna Scar Road This wide bridleway runs beneath the slopes of Coniston Old Man and provides an excellent route for walkers and mountain-bikers. You can start from Coniston village, or cut out some steep ascent by driving to the top of the little road up to the car park on the fell side. As well as acting as part of a circuit taking in Dow Crags and Coniston Old Man, the track can take you to Walna Scar itself and nearby White Maiden.

Mountain-bikers may wish to create a circular ride including Seathwaite and Torver, and this is often done with the Walna Scar Road as part of the return leg. Grizedale Some excellent walking is to be found amongst the trees of Grizedale Forest, and you can start at any of the forestry commission car parks, or at the main visitor centre. Several marked trails run from here, and look out for the sculptures dotted about the woodlands. This is a good choice on rainy or windy days, too, as the trees give some valuable protection from the elements. The trails are perhaps most suited for mountain biking, and you can make a great ride or walk of any length here. Head to Hawkshead village and then towards Satterthwaite to find the forest and visitor centre. Further Afield THINGS TO DO NEAR CONISTON Brantwood Visit the home of celebrated Victorian art critic and philosopher John Ruskin, perfectly set on the eastern shore of Coniston Water. Today the house is a museum of Ruskin art and memorabilia, and the estate grounds include several beautiful gardens.

There is a delightful tearoom here, too, and the patio offers a wonderful place to sit and take in the majesty of the surrounding lake and hills. – Esthwaite Water Trout Fishery Perhaps one of the most peaceful of Lake District waters, Esthwaite is home to a well-managed trout fishery, with bank and shore fishing, a guiding service, and fly-casting tuition. Travel to Hawkshead and find the fishery on the south-west shore of Esthwaite Water. You can also take the Osprey Safari, a boat ride around the lake. – Joint Adventures If you are looking for adventurous things to do near Coniston, Joint Adventures offers an adrenaline-fuelled day out. Qualified and experienced instructors lead you as you enjoy camping expeditions, gorge scrambling, archery, rock climbing and abseiling, all amongst our stunning Lake District scenery. – River Deep, Mountain High Another great option for outdoor activities is River Deep, Mountain High, who have been operating in the Coniston area for many years, and who try to challenge the perception that that pursuits like canoeing, gorge-walking, scrambling, mountain biking and climbing are only enjoyable for young, ‘outdoorsy’ types.

Half, full-day, and even two day activity sessions. – Hilltop We recommend a visit to Beatrix Potter’s home at Sawrey, past Hawkshead and towards Lake Windermere. Many of the pictures in her books depict the house and its gardens, and a number of the famous characters we all know and love were created here. The National Trust have preserved Hilltop just as Potter left it, and it is treasure for those who are familiar with her tales. – Getting to coniston GETTING TO AND FROM CONISTON Leave the M6 motorway at Junction 36 and either pass by Kendal, taking the A591 to Ambleside and then the A593 to Coniston, or take the A590 and then the A5084 to Torver, and head north on the A593. Windermere rail station is at the end of the branch line from Oxenholme, on the west coast mainline near Kendal, and the 505 bus will take you to Coniston village from there.

Information on bus timetables in the Lakes can be found here: mountain Coniston – Visit Cumbria Coniston Village Until the copper mines, dating from Jacobean times, were revitalised about 1859, Coniston was a scattered rural community. It was mainly settled around Coniston Hall, a 16th Century farmhouse with a display of mighty chimneys, built by the Fleming family, and now owned by the National Trust (though not open to the public). Its best feature is The Old Man of Coniston, rising dramatically behind the houses when seen from the village centre. Coniston is a good centre for walkers and climbers, and those wanting to investigate the Tilberthwaite Slate quarries. Coniston from ‘The Old Man of Coniston’ (2635 ft). Photo by Tony Richards St Andrew’s Church was completed in 1891, during a period of great prosperity for the community, when many wealthy patrons, including John Ruskin settled in the area. He lived for the last 30 years of his life at Brantwood , just across the lake.

When he died, he was buried in St Andrew’s graveyard, and his grave was marked with a large carved cross made from green slate from the local quarry at Tilberthwaite. It was designed by W.G. Collingwood his friend and secretary, who was an expert on Anglo-Saxon crosses, with symbols depicting important aspects of Ruskin’s work and life. A year later W.G. Collingwood worked to set up an exhibition, now called the Ruskin Museum at the back of the Coniston Mechanics Institute, as a place to preserve any Ruskin mementos that could be found. There are two public launch services on Coniston Water , the Coniston Launch , and the National Trust’s Steam Yacht Gondola . Both of these call at Brantwood. Arthur Ransome based his childrens’ book ‘Swallows and Amazons’ on loactions around Coniston Water. The Monk Coniston estate, owned by Beatrix Potter , and given on her death to the National Trust, stretches from Coniston to Skelwith Bridge. It includes the famous beauty spot – Tarn Hows .

Donald Campbell broke the water speed record on Coniston Water in 1955, and was killed attempting to regain it again in 1967. There is a memorial to him on the village green, just opposite the car park, and information about him in the Ruskin Museum. On 8 March 2001, Bluebird was raised from the bed of Coniston Water, and on 28 May the remains of what was later proved to be Campbell’s body were brought from the lake. A memorial service was held in Coniston church on 12 September 2001, and his body buried in the churchyard. More information, and a replica of Bluebird, can be seen at the Lakeland Motor Museum , at Holker Hall. The Black Bull Inn, (top picture) a 400 year old coaching inn at the foot of Coniston Old Man, is home to the Coniston Brewing Company , makers of ‘Bluebird Bitter’, CAMRA Supreme Champion Beer of Britain 1998.

Coniston Water – Hotels, Map, Walks, Campsite Map John Ruskin, Arthur Ransome, and Donald Campbell are just some of the famous names that have strong connections with Coniston Water, the third largest lake in the Lake District. Brantwood was Ruskin’s home from 1872 until his death in 1900. It’s situated on the eastern shore of the lake and enjoys fantastic views of the Old Man of Coniston. The house and gardens are now open to the public. As a child Arthur Ransome spent his summers at Nibthwaite, at the southern end of Coniston. His childhood adventures on the lake undoubtedly provided much of the inspiration for his Swallows and Amazons series of books. In more recent times Coniston Water has been associated with Donald Campbell’s attempts to break the world water speed record. In 1967 the daredevil died while attempting to break his own record in his jet-powered boat, the Bluebird K7. His body and the boat were only recovered from the lake in 2001.

Campbell was laid to rest in Coniston cemetery on September 12 2001 but the event attracted little media attention due to the events in New York and Washington the day before. The Bluebird K7 is currently undergoing restoration work and is expected to be put on display at the Ruskin Museum in 2012. Two operators run boat trips on Coniston Water. Coniston Launch operates two traditional wooden boats while the National Trust runs the Steam Yacht Gondola . Motor boats, rowing boats, dinghies, canoes, and kayaks can be rented from the Lake District National Park Authority’s Coniston Boating Centre . All are based at Coniston Pier, at the northern end of the lake, and just a short walk from Coniston village. The Monk Coniston estate begins at the northern end of the lake and was donated to the National Trust by Beatrix Potter. The estate includes Tarn Hows , a popular beauty spot created in the 19th century by James Garth Marshall, a wealthy industrialist and keen landscape gardener. The walk from Coniston to Tarn Hows and back is well worth it. The starting point is the Lake District National Park Authority’s Monk Coniston Car Park.

Walkers can drive and park here or alternatively arrive on the Steam Yacht Gondola. The full route of the walk can be downloaded from the National Trust website. Park Coppice Caravan Club Site is situated in a wooded area close to the western shore of the lake. It offers 280 hard standing pitches, plus toilet and shower blocks, laundry facilities, electric hook-ups, a shop, children’s play areas, and wireless internet access. Coniston Water is just a short walk from the site and the village is also nearby. Coniston Hall Camping Site is a large campsite on the shore of Coniston Water, just north of Park Coppice. The popular site accepts tents, motorhomes, and groups. Facilities include a small shop selling basic products, plus showers and toilets. Map Coniston Self Catering & Holiday Cottages View all cottages in this area Coniston, in the Southern Lake District, is famous for lots of reasons. Many remember it as the place where Donald Campbell was killed in 1967 whilst attempting to break the water speed record. As he was trying to reach 300mph, his hydroplane, the Bluebird, shot up into the air and disappeared into the lake.

His body wasn’t found until 2001, when his remains were raised from the lake bottom and buried in the village churchyard. Donald Campbell’s story is told in the Ruskin Museum, which celebrates Coniston’s heritage with exhibits on John Ruskin (see below), slate and copper mining as well as the lace and farming industries. The Lakeland Motor Museum, at nearby Holker Hall, has the Campbell Legend Bluebird Exhibition, with replica hydroplanes and photographs. The Victorian thinker John Ruskin was another remarkable man with links to Coniston. Artist, critic, philosopher, economist and conservationist, with a huge influence on the Pre-Raphelite painters, he bought Brantwood House overlooking Coniston Water in 1871 and lived there for over twenty years. The house and gardens are open to the public and well worth a visit. The gardens have wonderful views over the lake and fells and 250 acres of woodland. The house holds Ruskin’s collected writings and has regular exhibitions, concerts, courses and special events. Arthur Ransome, the children’s writer, was inspired by the lake and the mountains that surround it, basing his famous Swallows and Amazons series on them.

At five miles, Coniston Water is the third longest lake in the Lake District and there are many ways to explore it. You can take a cruise on the Steam Yacht Gondola, an elegant Victorian steam-powered yacht owned by the National Trust that sails between March and November, stopping off at various points including Brantwood. The Coniston Launch Sunshine Cruises, run on solar power, stop at jetties around the lake and has special ‘Swallows and Amazons’ and ‘Campbells on Coniston’ tours. The more energetic can hire their own boats from Coniston Pier, choosing between rowing boats, sailing dinghies, canoes and kayaks. Coniston Sailing Club is on the west side of the lake and organizes races throughout the year, which you can either watch or take part in. It offers both yearly membership and day membership from as little as £1.50. “Mountains are the beginning and the end of all natural scenery” John Ruskin. There are many walks to be had in Coniston, from easy strolls around the lake to challenging mountain climbs, including the Old Man of Coniston, at 2600 feet.

Visit the walking englishman website for details of an 8 hour walk taking in the Coniston fells. There are lots of other outdoor activities on offer. The Spoon Hall Trekking Centre, welcomes beginners and experienced riders for pony trekking across the Coniston fells. Or you can learn to fly with Coniston Paragliding, Tel: +44 (0) 15394 41825. There are many bridleways and high road passes to explore on mountain bikes. The well-stocked tourist information in the centre of Coniston village gives details of many routes, including the 53km ride about the lake. Bikes can be hired at Summitreks Adventures Services, which also offers courses and training on outdoor sports. There is also boating available at Coniston Boating Centre. Coniston also offers plenty of opportunity to relax, with many cafes, tearooms and pubs, both in the village itself and nearby. The Coniston Brewing Company, welcomes visitors and uses only natural products. Its range of beers includes the famous Blue Bird and Old Man ales.

Beatrix Potter, the famous children’s author, set up a tea room at Yew Tree Farm in 1933, which continues to serve tea and cakes to this day. It was recently used for the filming of ‘Miss Potter’, a film about Beatrix Potter starring Renee Zellweger. On the shore of the lake, the Bluebird Café is popular, partly because of its perfect location, but also because of its mouthwatering cakes and summer salads. It also has a bar and much memorabilia of the many speed record breakers that have been on Coniston Water. There are a number of pubs in the village with good food and real ales, including the Ship Inn, a cosy oak-beamed bar, and the 16th century Sun Hotel and Inn. Useful Links

Question: What is the name of the steam yacht, owned by the National Trust, which offers cruises on Coniston Water?
Answer: Gondola